Thank You Note Etiquette

In today's age of Internet, email, chat and text messages, the written word is under serious threat of becoming extinct. What do we normally do when we wish to acknowledge or thank someone? Most people nonchalantly type in the words 'thank you' on their mobile or computer screens and send it in as much as a nanosecond. Forget about written thank you letters, even telephoning someone to convey thanks has become a sort of rarity. However, one must always keep in mind that regardless of the fact that we live in the digital age, there are certain occasions when a handwritten thank you note is a must. On that note (pun unintended), let us have a look at the kind of etiquette one must follow while writing such notes.

When Are Thank You Notes Necessary?
A handwritten thank you is a must in the following cases.

• you receive an invitation for a wedding, party or any other special occasion.
• you are unwell and someone visits you or gifts you a get-well-soon card or a gift.
• a guest brings along a gift at a party that you have hosted.
• someone goes out of their way to do you a personal favor.
• you receive professional or personal help from your boss.
• a successful job interview.
• any other situation where you feel a formal thank you note would be appropriate.

Tips for Writing a Thank You Note

• A thank you note must be handwritten. Sending a typed or printed piece of text as a gesture of thanks, is extremely impersonal and impolite. A handwritten note always has a bit of personal touch to it along with a sense of genuineness.
• You should keep in mind the type of paper and stationery being used while writing a thank you note. It can be written in both formal as well as informal ways. Use only blue or black ink, and choose the type of paper depending on your relationship with the concerned person and the level of formality of the text.
• The timing of a thank you matters considerably. There is no point in sending a thank you note for a gift that you received over three years ago. The time period in which a note should be sent varies, depending on the occasion and the reason. In case of a wedding gift or a gift received at a baby shower, bridal shower or a housewarming party, a thank you note should be sent within seven days of the event. The seven day deadline is not a rule as such, but in general you should keep in mind that the earlier it is sent, the better it is.
• Sincerity and simplicity is what you should keep in mind while preparing a thank you note. Avoid using unnecessary extravagance in your text. This is not the place to show off or display your language skills. Regardless of whether you are hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobic or not, always remember to follow the KISS rule - Keep It Short and Simple. It will sound all the more genuine and the reader will be much more appreciative of it.
• While writing thank you notes, always focus more on the reader than on yourself. Start your sentences with 'you' or 'your' instead of 'I' or 'my'.

These were some points that you should keep in mind while writing thank you notes. It will certainly make the other person feel special and valued.